Conveyor belt cleaning apparatus

ABSTRACT

A cleaning assembly for cleaning a conveyor belt includes a base member adapted to be mounted relative to the conveyor belt; and a blade mounting assembly associated with the base member and adapted for mounting a scraper blade thereto, wherein the blade mounting assembly is configured for rotational movement relative to the base member, wherein the cleaning assembly is configured to maintain the scraper blade in abutment with the conveyor belt.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.17/758,374 filed on Jul. 5, 2022, which claims the benefit under 35U.S.C. § 371 of International Application No. PCT/AU2021/050003, filedon Jan. 6, 2021, which claims priority to Australian Application No.202090018 filed on Jan. 6, 2020. All of these applications areincorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND

The present invention relates to a conveyor belt cleaning apparatus anda cleaning assembly for a cleaning a conveyor belt.

Conveyor belt cleaners are used to remove unwanted material from aconveyor belt. Such unwanted material may be residual material carriedon, or stuck to, the belt after the bulk of material is discharged fromthe belt at a main discharge. For instance, coal particles and/or coalslurry may stick to conveyor belts after crushed coal is discharged fromthe belt. In order to remove the residual material from the conveyorbelt, a conveyor belt cleaner or scraper may be used.

A conventional conveyor belt cleaner includes an elongate rail extendingtransversely across the conveyor belt and a plurality of cleaning bladesmounted to the rail. The cleaning blades are substantially fixed inposition relative to the direction of travel of the conveyor belt andforce is applied to the elongate rail to bias the cleaning bladesagainst the conveyor belt. Accordingly, as the conveyor belt moves pastthe cleaning blades, the residual material carried by the conveyor beltis removed. However, as the conveyor belt wears, more force must beapplied to the rail to make the blades contact the conveyor belt.

Some conveyor belt cleaners use tensioners to apply force to the rail.However, the force is applied to the elongate rail evenly and as theconveyor belt tends to wear unevenly and the material handled tends tobe distributed towards the middle of the belt, portions of the conveyorbelt may be subjected to greater force than required, causing prematurewear of the conveyor belt. While resilient cushions and flexible bladesallow enough deflection to allow individual tips to deflect whilstmaintain the scraping edge of the tip to remain in contact with thebelt, the alignment of the cleaning blade with the worn belt, the amountof tension on individual tips, or the angle of the tip relative to theworn belt may not be ideal and the conveyor belt cleaner may not cleanas effectively or the tip may damage the conveyor belt.

While some conveyor belt cleaners may provide for an individual responseby a single cleaning blade, by providing a mechanical or air spring, ora pneumatic or hydraulic connection to individual cleaning blades, thesesolutions do not ensure that the cleaning blade may be maintained incontact with the conveyor belt at all times, or in contact with theconveyor belt at an angle to provide the most effective cleaning of theconveyor belt.

Thus, there would be an advantage if it were possible to provide aconveyor belt cleaning apparatus that provided the correct alignment,tension and angle of the cleaning blade relative to the conveyor belt.

It will be clearly understood that, if a prior art publication isreferred to herein, this reference does not constitute an admission thatthe publication forms part of the common general knowledge in the art inAustralia or in any other country.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

The present invention is directed to a conveyor belt cleaning apparatusand a cleaning assembly for a cleaning a conveyor belt which may atleast partially overcome at least one of the abovementioneddisadvantages or provide the consumer with a useful or commercialchoice.

With the foregoing in view, the present invention in one form, residesbroadly in a conveyor belt cleaning apparatus comprising:

-   -   a plurality of cleaning assemblies, each of the plurality of        cleaning assemblies comprising:    -   a base member associated with the elongate support member, and    -   a blade mounting assembly associated with the base member and        adapted for mounting a scraper blade thereto, wherein the blade        mounting assembly is configured for rotational movement relative        to the base member, and    -   an elongate support member,    -   wherein each of the plurality of cleaning assemblies is adapted        to maintain the respective scraper blades in abutment with a        conveyor belt.

The conveyor belt cleaning apparatus may be of any suitable, size,shape, or configuration. Preferably, the conveyor belt cleaningapparatus is of sufficient size and configuration to remove unwantedmaterial from a conveyor belt. However, it will be understood that thesize, shape and configuration of the conveyor belt cleaning apparatusmay vary depending on a number of factors, such as the size and type ofconveyor belt to be cleaned, the type of material to be removed from theconveyor belt and the amount of space available. In use, it is envisagedthat a plurality of conveyor belt cleaning assemblies may be used toremove material from a conveyor belt. In an embodiment of the invention,one or more of the same type of conveyor belt cleaning apparatus may beused. In an alternative embodiment of the invention, one or moredifferent types of conveyor belt cleaning assemblies may be used.

The conveyor belt cleaning apparatus may be located in any suitableposition relative to the conveyor belt. For instance, the conveyor beltcleaning apparatus may be positioned under the return side of a conveyorbelt, above the conveyor belt, at an end of a conveyor belt, and thelike. Preferably, the conveyor belt cleaning apparatus may be positionedunder the return side of a conveyor belt.

The conveyor belt cleaning apparatus may be configured to extendtransversely across a conveyor belt. In use, it is envisaged that theconveyor belt cleaning apparatus may be mounted at opposing ends thereofto a mount configured to position the conveyor belt cleaning apparatusacross a conveyor belt. Thus, it is envisaged that the conveyor beltcleaning apparatus may extend substantially transversely to thedirection of travel of the conveyor belt. For instance, the conveyorbelt cleaning apparatus may be mounted to a housing associated with theconveyor belt, may be mounted to a structure associated with theconveyor belt, may be suspended from a structure supporting the conveyorbelt, may be mounted to a supporting frame and/or legs, and any suitablecombination thereof.

The conveyor belt cleaning apparatus may be accessed through an accessopening in a structure supporting the conveyor belt. Any suitable accessopening may be provided. For instance, the access opening may be anaperture, a door, a hatch, or the like. Preferably, the access openingmay be sufficiently large to enable an operator to inspect the conveyorbelt cleaning operation, remove and/or replace the conveyor beltcleaning apparatus, or operate or access pumps, sensors, gauges, valves,and the like. In some embodiments of the invention, the conveyor beltcleaning apparatus may be removable from the structure supporting theconveyor belt. In this instance, it is envisaged that the conveyor beltcleaning apparatus may be removed via an access opening in the structuresupporting the conveyor belt.

The conveyor belt cleaning apparatus comprises an elongate supportmember. The elongate support member may be of any suitable size, shapeor configuration. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, theelongate support member may be of sufficient length that it may extendat least the width of the conveyor belt. Preferably, the elongatesupport member may extend beyond the lateral sides of the conveyor belt.Thus, it is envisaged that the elongate member may extend substantiallytransversely to the direction of travel of the conveyor belt. Theelongate support member may be configured for movement relative to theone or more mounts to which the conveyor belt cleaning apparatus may beattached, may be configured to be stationary relative to the one or moremounts to which the conveyor belt cleaning apparatus may be attached, ora portion of the elongate support member may be configured for movementrelative to the one or more mounts to which the conveyor belt cleaningapparatus may be attached and a second portion of the elongate supportmember may be configured to be stationary relative the one or moremounts to which the conveyor belt cleaning apparatus may be attached.The elongate support member may be configured for any suitable movementrelative to the one or more mounts. For instance, the elongate supportmember may be configured for lateral movement relative to the mounts(e.g. movement parallel to the direction of travel of the conveyorbelt), vertical movement relative to the mounts and/or rotationalmovement relative to the mounts. Preferably, the elongate support membermay be configured to be stationary relative to the structure to whichthe conveyor belt cleaning apparatus may be attached.

The elongate support member may be of any suitable cross-sectionalshape. For instance, the elongate support member may have asubstantially circular, oval, stadium, rectangular, square, or polygoncross-section. However, it will be understood that the cross-sectionalshape of the elongate support member may vary depending on a number offactors, such as whether the elongate support member may need to rotateabout its axis or is stationary, the type of cleaning assemblies usedand how the cleaning assemblies may be associated with the elongatesupport member. However, it is envisaged that a least a portion of thecleaning assemblies and at least a portion of the elongate supportmember may comprise cooperating shapes.

The elongate support member may be fabricated from any suitable materialor combinations of materials. Preferably, the elongate support membermay be fabricated from a material of sufficient mechanical properties(strength, rigidity, shape, etc.) to provide the required tension to thecleaning assembly without deforming and to contain a pressurized fluidtherein. For instance, the elongate support member may be fabricatedfrom metal, such as, but not limited to, aluminum (including honeycombaluminum, high tensile aluminum alloys, extruded aluminum, etc.), steel(including powder-coated steel, galvanized steel, extruded steel,stainless steel, etc.), or a polymeric materials, or plastic, and inparticular, a relatively durable plastic such as nylon, polyamides,polycarbonate, polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyvinylchloride, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene and the like, or any suitablecombination thereof. It is envisaged that at least a portion of theelongate support member may be fabricated from a polymeric material.

The elongate support member may comprise a first end and an opposedsecond end and a bore extending at least part way through the elongatesupport member between the first end to the second end. In someembodiments of the invention, the bore may extend all the way throughthe elongate support member from the first end to the second endthereof. Thus, it is envisaged that the bore may comprise a pair of openends, one open end and one closed end, or a pair of closed ends. In someembodiments of the invention, the bore may be configured to comprise oneor more conduits therein. The conduits may be of any suitable type. Forinstance, a fluid, such as a liquid or gas (such as air), may flowthrough the conduits. Alternatively, the conduits may carry cables,hoses or the like, such as, but not limited optical cable, electricalwiring, hoses, pipes and/or other connectors.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the bore and/or one or moreconduits in the bore, may be in fluid communication with a source offluid. In particular, the bore and/or one more conduits in the bore maybe in fluid communication with a source of pressurized fluid. Anysuitable fluid may be used, although in a preferred embodiment of theinvention, the fluid may comprise a pneumatic or hydraulic fluid. Anysuitable source of fluid may be provided, such as a gas cylinder or thelike. More preferably, the source of fluid may comprise a fluidreservoir. In a specific embodiment of the invention, the source offluid may comprise one or more accumulators, such as hydraulicaccumulators, hydro-pneumatic accumulators or the like. In use, it isenvisaged that the elongate support member may be a source ofpressurized fluid for each of the plurality of cleaning assemblies. Inthis instance, it is envisaged that the elongate support member mayprovide pressurized fluid to the cleaning assembly each of the pluralityof cleaning assemblies may be individually pressurized.

The conveyor belt cleaning apparatus may comprise a plurality ofcleaning assemblies. Preferably, the cleaning assemblies may be used fora cleaning a conveyor belt. Any suitable number of cleaning assembliesmay be used. However, it will be understood that the number of cleaningassemblies used may vary depending on a number of factors, such as thesize, shape and configuration of the cleaning assemblies, the size,shape and configuration of the elongate support member and the size,type and configuration of the conveyor belt to be cleaned.

The plurality of cleaning assemblies may be associated with the elongatesupport member. The cleaning assemblies may be associated with theelongate support member by any suitable means. For instance, thecleaning assemblies may be configured to be mounted to the elongatesupport member, may be configured to receive at least a portion of theelongate support member therein, may be configured to be at leastpartially received within the elongate support member, or any suitablecombination thereof. Preferably, however, the means by which thecleaning assemblies may be associated with the elongate support membermay be sufficient to maintain the cleaning assembly in connection withthe elongate support member and remain in fluid communication duringoperation of the conveyor belt cleaning apparatus.

Each of the plurality of cleaning assemblies may comprise a base member.Preferably, the cleaning assemblies may be associated with the elongatesupport member via a base member. The base member may be associated withthe elongate support member by any suitable means. For instance, thebase member may be configured to be mounted to the elongate supportmember, may be configured to receive at least a portion of the elongatesupport member therein, may be configured to be at least partiallyreceived within the elongate support member, or any suitable combinationthereof.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the base member may beconfigured to be at least partially received within a portion of theelongate support member. Preferably, the elongate support member maycomprise one or more bores that extend transversely to the longitudinalaxis of the elongate support member. The size, shape and configurationof the transverse bores may be substantially the same as the size, shapeand configuration of the base member of the cleaning assembly.Preferably, the size, shape and configuration of the transverse boresmay be substantially the same as the size, shape and configuration ofthe lower region of the base member. In this instance, it is envisagedthat the transverse bores of the elongate support member may be adaptedto receive and retain at least a portion of the base member of thecleaning assembly therein. Preferably, the base member of the cleaningassembly may be removably received and retained within the transversebores of the elongate support member.

The base member may be of any suitable size, shape or configuration.Preferably, however, the base member may be of sufficient size and shapeto maintain a scraper blade in abutment with the conveyor belt. In anembodiment of the invention, the base member may comprise an upperregion and a lower region, wherein the lower region of the base membermay be associated with the elongate support member and wherein the upperregion of the base member may be associated with a blade mountingassembly. In an embodiment of the invention, the upper region and thelower region of the base member may be a unitary structure. In apreferred embodiment of the invention, the upper region and the lowerregion of the base member may be two or more separate portions, whereinthe two or more portions may be adapted for fixed or temporaryattachment to one another. Preferably, the upper region and the lowerregion of the base member may be two or more cooperating portions.

The base member may be fabricated from any suitable material orcombinations of materials. Preferably, however, the base member may befabricated from a material with sufficient mechanical properties(strength, rigidity, shape, etc.) to provide the required tension to thecleaning assembly without deforming. For instance, the base member maybe fabricated from metal, such as, but not limited to, steel (includingpowder-coated steel, galvanized steel, extruded steel, stainless steel,mild steel, etc.), aluminum (including high tensile aluminum alloys,extruded aluminum, etc.) or a polymeric material such as, but notlimited to, nylon, polyamides, polycarbonate, polyethylene,polypropylene, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, acrylonitrile butadienestyrene and the like, or any suitable combination thereof. In anembodiment of the invention, the upper region and the lower region ofthe base member may be fabricated from the same type of material. In analternative embodiment of the invention, the upper region and the lowerregion of the base member may be fabricated from different types ofmaterials.

The lower region of the base member may be of any suitable size, shapeor configuration. Preferably, however, the lower region of the basemember may be of sufficient size, shape or configuration so as to be atleast partially received and retained within a transverse bore in theelongate support member and to resist compressive forces exerted bycontact of the conveyor belt with the cleaning assembly. In a preferredembodiment of the invention, the lower region of the base member may becylindrical or substantially cylindrical in configuration.

Preferably, the lower region of the base member comprises a bodyportion, the body portion comprising a first end and an opposed secondend and a bore extending at least part way through the body portion fromthe first end to the second end. The body portion may comprise a boreextending substantially all of the way through the body portion from thefirst end to the second end. Thus, it is envisaged that the bore of thebody portion may comprise a pair of open ends, or one open end and oneclosed end. In use, it is envisaged that the bore may be configured toreceive at least a portion of the upper region of the base membertherein. In this instance, it is envisaged that the bore of the bodyportion may comprise at least one open end.

Preferably, at least the end of the lower region of the base memberextending outwardly from the transverse bore in the elongate supportmember may be provided with a flange. The flange may be located on anexternal surface of the lower region of the base member, or located atthe end of the lower region of the base member. It is envisaged that inuse, the flange may provide a surface to which the upper region of thebase member may be attached.

Preferably, the lower region of the base member may be biased using oneor more biasing members. Any suitable biasing members may be used, suchas, but not limited to, one or more pieces of compressible material. Inan embodiment of the invention, the biasing member may be a springmember. Preferably, the biasing member may be a return spring member,wherein the return spring member biases the upper region of the basemember into a retracted condition. Preferably, the biasing member may beunder preload compression. In use, it is envisaged that compression inthe biasing member increases as the actuation device is pressurized andreduces to its preload compression levels as the actuation devicedepressurizes. In use, it is envisaged that the spring member may bearranged so as to force the upper region of the base member to retracttowards the lower region of the base member and consequential movementof the blade mounting assembly along the same axis as the pressure onthe actuation device is relieved.

In an embodiment of the invention, the biasing member bears against boththe lower region of the base member and a surface of the transverse borein the elongate support member. The biasing member may bear against anysuitable surface of the lower region. For instance, the bearing surfacemay be a flange, an undercut, a stepped portion, or the like. In anembodiment of the invention, the flange may provide a bearing surfaceagainst which the biasing member may be seated. In an alternativeembodiment of the invention, a stepped portion in the body portion ofmay provide a bearing surface against which the biasing member may beseated. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the lower region ofthe base member may be provided with a pair of opposing surfaces,between which the biasing member may be located such that it bearsagainst the pair of opposing surfaces.

In an alternative embodiment of the invention, a lower region of thebase member may be configured to mount the base member to the elongatesupport member. Preferably, the base member may be removably mounted tothe elongate support member. The base member may be mounted to theelongate support member by any suitable means. For instance, the basemember may be slidably engaged with the elongate support member, may beattached to an outer surface of the elongate support member by one ormore locking members, or may be retained in frictional engagement, forinstance by providing complementary male-female connection portions, andthe like. It is envisaged that, in use, the locking members prevent eachof the cleaning assemblies from independent movement relative to theelongate support member.

In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the base member may beslidably engaged with the elongate support member. Preferably, the basemember may comprise an opening in a lower region thereof, wherein theopening may be configured to receive at least a portion of the elongatesupport member. The opening may comprise a first open end and an opposedsecond open end and a bore extending through the base member from thefirst open end to the second open end. The bore may be of any suitabledimensions. For instance, the width or diameter of the bore may besubstantially constant along its length or may vary along its length.Preferably, however the size, shape and configuration of the opening maybe substantially the same as the size, shape and configuration of theelongate support member. In this instance, it is envisaged that thelower region of the base member may substantially form a collar, ring orthe like, which is adapted to receive and retain at least a portion ofthe elongate support member therein.

The lower region of the base member may be a unitary structure.Alternatively, the lower region of the base member may be formed fromtwo or more portions, wherein the two or more portions may be fastenedtogether using one or more mechanical fasteners (screws, bolts, pins,latch, or the like). Alternatively, the two or more portions may befastened together by frictional engagement, or by providingcomplementary screw-threaded portions, press fittings, snap fitfeatures, male-female connectors or the like. In an embodiment of theinvention, the two or more portions may be formed by splitting the basemember in the region of the opening, from the first end of the openingto the opposed second end of the opening, such that the bore of theopening may be exposed. In an embodiment of the invention, thecross-section of the inner surface of the bore in each portion of thebase member may be symmetrical. Alternatively, the cross-section of theinner surface of the bore of each portion of the base member may benon-symmetrical. It is envisaged that by providing the base member witha lower region having two or more portions, the cleaning assembly may bemore easily fitted to and removed from the elongate support member whenthe cleaning assembly needs to be removed or replaced.

In an embodiment of the invention wherein the base member may beconfigured to be mounted onto the elongate support member, it isenvisaged that an operator may slide the base member onto the elongatesupport member until it is in the desired position along the length ofthe elongate support member. The operator may then rotate the basemember relative to the elongate support member until the scraper bladeis in the desired position relative to the conveyor belt and fasten thebase member to the elongate support member. Alternatively, the basemember may comprise two or more cooperating portions, wherein in use theoperator may separate the two or more cooperating portions of the basemember, position a first portion of the base member on the elongatesupport member at the desired position along the length of the elongatemember and fasten a second portion of the base member to the firstportion of the base member.

The base member may be provided with a locking member to fasten the basemember to the elongate support member when the base member is engagedwith the elongate support member. It is envisaged that the lockingmember substantially precludes the base member from moving relative tothe elongate support member when in use. Preferably, the locking membermay retain the base member in removable engagement with the elongatesupport member. For instance, the base member and the elongate supportmember may be provided with one or more apertures, that when aligned, alocking member may be inserted to fasten the base member to the elongatesupport member. Any suitable locking member may be used. For instance,the locking member may comprise a mechanical fastener such as a lockpin, a threaded bolt, a split pin, or the like. In an alternativeembodiment, the base member may be provided with an aperture throughwhich a set screw may be screwed so as to engage with a surface of theelongate support member. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, thebase member may be provided with at least one locking member configuredto engage with at least one receiving portion of the elongate supportmember to retain the base member in removable attachment with theelongate support member. Preferably, the base member may be providedwith a cam lock, linkage lock, or easily accessible retaining bolts. Inuse, it is envisaged that fastening the base member to the elongatesupport member may assist in forming a seal between the base member andthe elongate support member whilst allowing an operator to swap outassemblies safely and quickly when the cleaning assembly requiresreplacement.

In an embodiment of the invention wherein the base member may beconfigured to be mounted onto the elongate support member, the bore ofthe opening in the base member may be provided with one or more annulargrooves configured to receive a sealing member therein. In thisinstance, it is envisaged that a sealing member (such an O-ring, agasket, or the like) may be positioned in the annular groove of theopening so as to reduce or eliminate the ingress of water and debris(dust, dirt, etc.) into a gap between the elongate support member andthe bore of the opening. The one or more annular grooves may be axiallyspaced along the length of the bore. The sealing members may also beprovided in order to provide a seal so that hydraulic or pneumatic fluidis substantially precluded from leaking between the base member and theelongate support member. In this way the pressure of the hydraulic orpneumatic fluid within the base member may be maintained.

As previously stated, the upper region and the lower region of the basemember may be two or more separate portions, wherein the upper regionand the lower region of the base member may be fastened together usingone or more mechanical fasteners (screws, bolts, pins, latch, or thelike). Alternatively, the upper region and the lower region of the basemember may be fastened together by frictional engagement, or byproviding complementary screw-threaded portions, press fittings, snapfit features, male-female connectors of the like. In a preferredembodiment of the invention, the upper region and the lower region ofthe base member may be fastened together using one or more mechanicalfasteners.

The base member of each cleaning assembly may comprise an actuationdevice. Any suitable type of actuation device may be used. For instance,the actuation device may be a pneumatic actuator, a hydraulic actuator,an electric actuator, or a spring actuator. Preferably, the actuationdevice may be pressurized by the pressurized fluid located in theelongate support member.

Preferably, however, the actuation device is configured to providelinear motion. Preferably, actuation of the actuation device results inlinear movement of the blade mounting assembly relative to the basemember. It is envisaged that in use, actuation of the actuation devicecauses the actuation device to extend, resulting in linear movement ofthe upper region of the base member relative to the lower region of thebase member and consequential movement of the blade mounting assemblyalong the same axis. In this way, it is envisaged that actuation of theactuation device helps maintain tension of the scraping blade relativeto the conveyor belt. In some embodiments of the invention, theactuation device may comprise a piston, ram, gas strut or the like. Theactuation device may be provided with one or more bleed screws and oneor more sealing members to maintain pressure of the hydraulic orpneumatic fluid within the actuation device.

Actuation of the actuation device may be automatic, manual, or acombination of the two. The actuation device may be actuatedcontinuously, periodically, or on as-needs basis determined by anoperator or in response to a signal or alert generated by one or moresensors associated with the conveyor belt. Preferably, however actuationof the actuation device may help maintain correct alignment and tiptension of each of the blade mounting assemblies relative to theconveyor belt. Thus, actuation of the actuation device may result in ablade mount assembly moving substantially upwardly towards the conveyorbelt or substantially downwardly towards the elongate support member.

The upper region of the base member may comprise a housing portion. Inuse, it is envisaged that the housing portion may be configured to atleast partially retain the actuation device therein and be acted upon bythe actuation device. For instance, it is envisaged that the actuationdevice may abut an upper portion of the housing portion and actuation ofthe actuation device may result in linear movement of the housingportion relative to the lower region of the base member. The housingportion may be provided in order to protect the base member (and morespecifically, the actuation device) from the ingress of contaminantssuch as dirt, dust or the like, or from the impact of material removedfrom the conveyor.

It is envisaged that the upper region of the base member may beprecluded from separating fully from the lower region of the base memberor rotating relative thereto when the cleaning assembly is in abutmentwith the conveyor belt. This may be achieved using any suitabletechnique. For instance, one or more stop members may be provided on asurface of the lower region of the base member, extending outwardlytherefrom, which may engage with at least a portion of the upper regionof the base member, preventing the upper region from separating fullyfrom the lower region of the base member. Alternatively, the upperregion of the base member may be provided with a retaining member (suchas a strap, a tie, a clip, a clasp, an elastomeric member, or the like)that provides limited movement of the upper region of the base memberrelative to the lower region of the base member. For instance, theactuation device may be provided with a locking section that limits theextension of the actuation device. For instance, the upper region of thebase member may be provided with a projection or a pin member extendingoutwardly therefrom configured to engage with a recess located in thelower region of the base member that substantially precludes rotation ofthe upper region relative to the lower region. In this instance, it isenvisaged that the recess may be a longitudinally extending groove,wherein in use, the projection may move along the length of the recesswithout substantial lateral movement as the base member extends orcompresses.

The actuation device may be in fluid communication with an accumulator,such as, but not limited to, a hydraulic accumulator or apneumatic-hydraulic accumulator. In use, it is envisaged that theaccumulator may help maintain pressure in each individual actuationdevice.

The upper region of the base member may comprise a mounting portion. Anysuitable mounting portion may be used. Preferably, however, theconfiguration of the mounting portion may enable the blade mountingassembly to be mounted thereon and facilitate the rotational movement ofthe blade mounting assembly relative to the base member. In anembodiment of the invention, the mounting portion of the base member anda connection portion of the blade mounting assembly may be provided withcomplementary connection portions. For instance, the mounting portionmay comprise a projection configured to be received within a portion ofthe blade mounting assembly, or the mounting portion may be configuredto receive at least a portion of the blade mounting assembly therein,and so on. In a particular embodiment of the invention, the mountingportion may comprise a collar, ring or the like, adapted to receive andretain at least a portion of the blade mounting assembly and allowrotational movement of the blade mounting assembly relative thereto. Insome embodiments of the invention, the mounting portion may include orcomprise a bearing (such as a wing bearing).

The mounting portion may be located on any suitable portion of the upperregion of the base member. Preferably, however, the mounting portion maybe provided on a portion of the housing portion which facilitates therotational movement of the blade mounting assembly. For instance, themounting portion may be provided on a side of the base member, an uppersurface of the base member, and the like. Preferably, the mountingportion may be provided on the housing portion. Yet more preferably, themounting portion may be provided on an upper surface of the housingportion.

Each of the plurality of cleaning assemblies may comprise a blademounting assembly. The blade mounting assembly may be of any suitablesize, shape or configuration. Preferably, however the blade mountingassembly is of sufficient size and shape to maintain a scraper blade inabutment with the conveyor belt.

The blade mounting assembly may be associated with the base member. In apreferred embodiment of the invention, the blade mounting assembly maybe associated with an upper region of the base member. Preferably, aconnection portion of the blade mounting assembly may be associated withthe mounting portion of the base member. The blade mounting assembly maybe associated with the base member by any suitable means. For instance,the connection portion of the blade mounting assembly may be fastened tothe mounting portion of the base member using one or more mechanicalfasteners (screws, bolts, rivets, pins, or the like), an adhesive, aheat or chemical treatment, or welded using any suitable technique.Alternatively, the connection portion of the blade mounting assembly andthe mounting portion of the base member may be connected together byfrictional engagement, or by providing complementary screw-threadedportions, press fittings, snap fit features, male-female connectors, orthe like. Preferably, the blade mounting assembly may be associated withthe base member by a means which facilitates the rotational movement ofthe blade mounting assembly relative to the base member.

The blade mounting assembly may comprise an adjustment member. Anysuitable adjustment member may be used. For instance, the adjustmentmember may be hydraulic or pneumatically actuated, may be screwthreadedly engaged with the connection portion of the blade mountingassembly, and the like. Preferably, however, the adjustment portion maybe configured to provide the blade mounting assembly with rotationalmovement relative to the base member. In this way, it is envisaged thatmovement of the blade mounting assembly may assist in maintainingcorrect alignment of the scraper blades relative to the conveyor belt.

It is envisaged that in use, the adjustment member facilitates therotational movement of the blade mounting assembly relative to the basemember. Rotation of the blade mounting assembly may be achievedmanually, may be driven by a motor, may be actuated by an actuationdevice, may be actuated by contact with a conveyor belt, or the like.The blade mounting assembly may be rotated periodically, or on anas-needs basis determined by an operator or in response to a signal oralert generated by one or more sensors associated with the conveyorbelt. In this instance, it is envisaged that adjustment member mayactively alter the configuration of the blade mounting assembly.

Alternatively, the blade mounting assembly may be self-compensating androtated in response to a configuration of the conveyor belt. Forinstance, the blade mounting assembly may rotate to a firstconfiguration when the scraper blade contacts a first profile of theconveyor belt and rotate to a second configuration when the scraperblade contacts a second profile of the conveyor belt. In this instance,it is envisaged that the adjustment member may provide passive supportto the blade mounting assembly, allowing the scraper blade to conform tominor irregularities and movement in the conveyor belt and reducinglikelihood of damage to the conveyor belt. Preferably, however rotationof the blade mounting assembly may help maintain correct alignment andtip tension to the conveyor belt. In use, it is envisaged as the upperregion of the base member extends relative to the lower region of thebase member due to pressurization of the actuation device, a portion ofthe scraper blade contacts the conveyor belt, the blade mountingassembly may rotate about the adjustment member such that substantiallythe length of the scraper blade conforms to the wear profile of theconveyor belt. The linear movement pushes the scraper blade into theconveyor belt and the increased tension causes the scraper blade to flexbackwards about the resilient member which, changes the attack angle foreach respective cleaning assembly.

The blade mounting assembly may be adapted for mounting a scraper bladethereto. The blade mounting assembly may be adapted for mounting ascraper blade by any suitable means. Preferably, however, the blademounting assembly mounts the scraper blade in a position such that thescraper blade may contact the conveyor belt transversely across itsdirection of travel.

The blade mounting assembly may rotate any suitable distance relative tothe base portion. In use, it is envisaged that the blade mountingassembly may rotate about the adjustment member. It is envisaged that,in some embodiments of the invention, the blade mounting assembly mayrotate up to 20° angle relative to the base portion. More preferably,the blade mounting assembly may rotate up to 10° angle relative to themounting portion. In this embodiment of the invention, it is envisagedthat the blade mounting assembly may rotate up to 10° angle in anydirection. More preferably, however, it is envisaged that the blademounting assembly may rotate up to 5° angle either side of the vertical.In this instance, it is envisaged that the rotational movement of theblade mounting assembly may be described as a rocking motion and assistsin aligning the scraper blade with the conveyor belt.

In an embodiment of the invention, the blade mounting assembly maycomprise a blade mount member to which a scraper blade may be mounted.The blade mount member may be of any suitable form, although in apreferred embodiment of the invention, the blade mount member may be inthe form of a plate. Preferably, the blade mount member may be adaptedfor connection to the connection portion at or adjacent a first endthereof, while the blade mount member may be adapted for connection tothe scraper blade at or adjacent an opposed second end thereof. In apreferred embodiment of the invention, the scraper blade may be attachedto an upper region of the blade mount member. In this instance, it isenvisaged that the scraper blade may at least partially extend above theupper end of the blade mount member. Preferably, the scraper blade maybe attached to an upper region of the blade mount member and theconnection portion may be attached to a lower region of the blade mountmember.

The scraper blades may be positioned at any suitable orientation.Preferably, however, the scraper blades extend substantially parallel tothe elongate support member (and therefore substantially transverse tothe direction of travel of the conveyor belt. Thus, it is envisaged thatthe blade mounting assembly may rotate about an axis that isapproximately parallel to the direction of travel of the conveyor beltand therefore approximately transverse to the elongate support member.It is envisaged that the diagonally opposed position of the scraperblade on the mounting member relative to the connection portion providesthe cleaning assembly with a larger range of rotational movement aboutthe elongate support member to achieve the correct alignment and tiptension relative to the conveyor belt.

The mounting member may be of any suitable size, shape or configuration.For instance, the mounting member may have a substantially circular,oval, stadium, rectangular, square, or polygon cross-section.Preferably, however the mounting member is of sufficient size, shape andconfiguration to support the mounting of the scraper blade on onesurface thereof and the connection portion on an opposed surfacethereof. In an embodiment of the invention, the mounting member may bean elongate member. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, themounting member may have a square or rectangular cross-section.Preferably, the width of the mounting member may be substantially thesame as the width of the scraper blade. In an embodiment of theinvention, the width of the mounting member may extend at least thewidth of the scraper blade. In an alternative embodiment of theinvention, the width of the mounting member may not extend beyond thewidth of the scraper blade.

The scraper blade may be configured for attachment to the blade mountingassembly. The scraper blade may be attached to the blade mountingassembly in any suitable manner. Preferably, the scraper blade may beattached in a manner such that it may be substantially precluded frommovement relative to the blade mounting assembly. For instance, thescraper blade may be attached to the blade mounting assembly using oneor more mechanical fasteners (such as screws, bolts, rivets, pins, orthe like), an adhesive, a heat or chemical treatment (such asvulcanization), or may be welded to the frame using any suitabletechnique. In an embodiment of the invention, the scraper blade may beattached to the mounting member of the blade mounting assembly.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the scraper blade may beattached to the blade mounting assembly in order to provide to form adesired angle between the tip of the scraper blade and the conveyor belt(i.e. the attack angle). This may be achieved in any suitable manner.However, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the mounting membermay be provided at an angle to the base portion and/or the connectionportion that, when a scraper blade is connected thereto, orients thescraper blade at the desired attack angle to the conveyor belt.

The scraper blade may be fabricated from any suitable material orcombinations of materials. For instance, the scraper blade may befabricated from a metal or metal alloy (such as a steel material, acarbide alloy, and the like), a rubber or polymeric material (such as,but not limited to, rubber, silicone rubber, polyurethane, nylon,polyamides, polyethylene, polypropylene, and the like), or any suitablecombination thereof. Preferably, however, the scraper blade may befabricated from a relatively wear-resistant material. The scraper blademay be a unitary structure. Alternatively, the scraper blade may beformed from two or more portions, wherein each of the two or moreportions may be separately attached to the blade mounting assembly. Insome embodiments of the invention, the two or more portions of thescraper blade may be attached to one or more adjacent portions.

The cleaning assembly may comprise at least one resilient member.Preferably, the at least one resilient member may be associated with theblade mounting assembly. The resilient member may be associated with theblade mounting assembly in any suitable manner. For instance, theresilient member may be positioned between the scraper blade and themounting member, between the mounting member and the connection portion,and any suitable combination thereof. In use, it is envisaged that theresilient member may provide yielding support to the scraper blade,allowing the scraper blade to conform to minor irregularities andmovement in the conveyor belt and reducing likelihood of damage to theconveyor belt, the scraper blade and/or the blade mounting assembly.

The resilient member may be fabricated from any suitable material orcombinations of materials. For instance, the resilient member may befabricated from an elastomeric or polymeric material (such as rubber,silicone rubber, and the like). Preferably, however, the resilientmember may be fabricated from a relatively resilient material.

The conveyor belt cleaning apparatus may be provided with one or moresensors or other measuring devices. Any suitable sensor or measuringdevice may be used. For instance, the sensor may include one or morepressure sensors, wear sensors, impact sensors, temperature sensors, orthe like. Preferably, each cleaning assembly may be provided with apressure sensor. In this instance, it is envisaged that the tension ofthe cleaning blade relative to the conveyor belt may be monitored andanalyzed whilst the conveyor is in operation. Preferably, each cleaningassembly may be provided with a linear rail and sensor. In thisinstance, it is envisaged that the belt wear and scraper blade wear maybe monitored and analyzed whilst the conveyor is in operation.

The one or more sensors or other measuring devices may be associatedwith an external computing device. The one or more sensors or othermeasuring devices may be physically connected to the external computingdevice (for instance, by being attached via one or more cables, wires,cords or the like) or indirectly connected to one another via acommunication portion, wherein the communication portion may provide aninterface between the one or more sensors or other measuring devices andthe external computing device. In other embodiments of the invention,the one or more sensors or other measuring devices and the externalcomputing device may be in wireless communication with one another, suchas by Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or the like.

The computing device may be of any suitable type. For instance, thecomputing device may comprise a computer, mobile telephone, computingtablet, smart watch or the like, or any suitable combination thereof. Inother embodiments, the computing device may comprise a control system(DCS, SCADA, or the like), expert system and so on. In otherembodiments, the computing device may comprise a control panel locatedadjacent to the conveyor. The control panel may comprise a display onwhich measurements taken by the sensors or other measuring devices maybe displayed for an operator to review.

As previously stated, the base member may be provided with an actuationdevice. The actuation device may be self-contained or may be in fluidcommunication with a supply of pneumatic or hydraulic fluid.

The conveyor belt cleaning apparatus may be provided with a means ofsupplying pneumatic or hydraulic fluid to an actuation device located inthe base member. For instance, the conveyor belt cleaning apparatus maybe provided with one or more conduits directly connected to an actuationdevice fluid inlet, a rotary manifold, a manifold assembly located inthe bore of the elongate support member, a manifold assembly located ona surface of the conveyor cleaning apparatus, an accumulator, or thelike.

In an embodiment of the invention, the conveyor belt cleaning apparatusmay be in fluid communication with an accumulator. Preferably, theelongate support member portion may be in fluid communication with anaccumulator. Any suitable accumulator may be used. For instance, theaccumulator may be a hydraulic accumulator, a gas-charged accumulator, aspring-loaded accumulator, a raised weight accumulator, and the like.Preferably, however, the accumulator may help maintain pressure in ahydraulic system. By providing an accumulator in fluid communicationwith each cleaning assembly, it is envisaged that the pressure of thefluid in each cleaning assembly will be substantially similar, such thateach cleaning assembly applies the same tension to the respectivescraper blades. In an embodiment of the invention, the accumulator maybe in fluid communication with a conveyor belt cleaning apparatus via amanifold.

The elongate support member may be configured to connect to an actuationdevice fluid inlet. In use, it is envisaged that the actuation devicefluid inlet may be located at an end of the actuation device. Anysuitable means of connection may be provided. For instance, the elongatesupport member may be connected to an actuation device fluid inlet by aconduit, may be in direct contact, and the like. Preferably, theelongate support member may comprise a fluid outlet configured toconnect with the actuation device fluid inlet, such that the elongatesupport member may be in fluid communication with the cleaning assembly.Preferably, the fluid outlet in the elongate support member may beprovided with a sealing member, such as an O-ring or a gasket tomaintain pressure of the hydraulic or pneumatic fluid within theactuation device and/or the elongate support member.

In an embodiment of the invention, the elongate support member may beconnected to an actuation device fluid inlet by a conduit. The conduitmay be located in the bore of the elongate support member, may passthrough a portion of the transverse bore configured to receive the basemember of the cleaning assembly therein, or may pass through theelongate support member from an outer surface thereof.

In an embodiment of the invention wherein the base member may beconfigured to be mounted onto the elongate support member, the elongatesupport member may be configured for rotational movement relative to theconveyor belt. In this instance, it is envisaged that rotationalmovement of the elongate support member results in a correspondingmovement of each cleaning assembly mounted to the elongate supportmember. In use, it is envisaged that rotation of the elongate supportmember may adjust the attack angle of the scraper blade. In anembodiment of the invention, a support member fluid outlet may be influid communication with a base member fluid inlet. Preferably, thefluid outlet in the elongate support member may be provided with asealing member, such as an O-ring or a gasket to maintain pressure ofthe hydraulic or pneumatic fluid within the base member. Alternatively,one or more sealing members located in the one or more annular groovesof the opening of the base member may form a sealed chamber between theouter surface of the elongate support member and the inner surface ofthe bore of the base member. In this instance, it is envisaged that thesealing members may act as a fluid communication pathway between theelongate support member and an actuation device fluid inlet.Alternatively, the elongate support member may comprise an annularrecess located on a surface thereof. In this instance, it is envisagedthat when the elongate support member is received in the opening of thebase member, the annular recess may substantially align with anactuation device fluid inlet. Alternatively, the elongate support membermay be a rotary manifold, or a rotary manifold may be located in thebore of the elongate support member. The rotational movement of theelongate support member may be actuated automatically, manually, or acombination of the two. The rotational movement of the elongate supportmember may be actuated continuously, periodically, or on as-needs basisdetermined by an operator or in response to a signal or alert generatedby one or more sensors associated with the conveyor belt. Preferably,however actuation of the rotational movement of the elongate supportmember may help maintain the correct attack angle of each of the blademounting assemblies relative to the conveyor belt.

In an embodiment of the invention, the accumulator may be provided witha hand operable pump. The hand operable pump may be located at an end ofthe elongate support member. It is envisaged that in use, the handoperable pump may allow an operator to pressurize the accumulator and/orthe conveyor belt cleaning apparatus.

The base member may be provided with a base member cover. In use, it isenvisaged that the base member cover may reduce or eliminate the ingressof water and debris (dust, dirt, etc.) into the base member. The basemember cover may be fabricated from any suitable material or combinationof materials. For instance, the base member cover may be fabricated froma metal or metal alloy, a polymeric material, or any suitablecombination thereof. Preferably, the base member cover may be fabricatedfrom a relatively durable polymeric material such as, but not limitedto, polycarbonate, polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyvinylchloride, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene and the like, or any suitablecombination thereof.

The conveyor belt cleaning apparatus may be provided with a cleaningassembly cover, configured to substantially cover the cleaning assembly.In use, it is envisaged that the cleaning assembly cover may reduce oreliminate the ingress of water and debris (dust, dirt, etc.) into thecleaning assembly. In this instance, it is envisaged that at least aportion of the blade mounting portion may project outwardly from thecleaning assembly cover such that the scraper blade may be retained incontact with a portion of the conveyor belt.

The cleaning assembly may be provided with a protective bellows, orgasket, such that the protective bellows prevents ingress of water anddebris into the base member and/or into the transverse bore in theelongate support member.

The conveyor belt cleaning apparatus may be provided with one or morecleaning equipment articles, such as a brush cleaner, an air knife, aspray bar, a V-plough or return plough, or the like. In an embodiment ofthe invention, the conveyor belt cleaning apparatus may be provided witha spray bar, wherein the spray bar comprises one or more nozzlesconfigured to disperse a liquid across the belt surface during thecleaning operation.

The conveyor belt cleaning apparatus may be provided with one or morestabilizing or hold down rollers, wherein the stabilizing rollers areconfigured to hold the conveyor belt flat and stable to optimize beltcontact with the scraper blades.

In a second aspect, the invention resides broadly in a cleaning assemblyfor cleaning a conveyor belt comprising:

-   -   a base member adapted to be mounted relative to the conveyor        belt; and    -   a blade mounting assembly associated with the base member and        adapted for mounting a scraper blade thereto, wherein the blade        mounting assembly is configured for rotational movement relative        to the base member,    -   wherein the cleaning assembly is configured to maintain the        scraper blade in abutment with the conveyor belt.

Preferably, the cleaning assembly is the cleaning assembly according toa first aspect of the invention.

Preferably, the base member is the base member according to a firstaspect of the invention.

Preferably, the blade mounting assembly is the blade mounting assemblyaccording to a first aspect of the invention.

Preferably, the scraper blade is the scraper blade according to a firstaspect of the invention.

The present invention provides numerous advantages over the prior art.For instance, the present invention allows each individual cleaningassembly to maintain contact with the conveyor belt at the optimum tiptension, alignment and attack angle for that cleaning assembly in orderto effectively clean the conveyor belt. In addition, as each of thecleaning assemblies self-compensates for changes in conveyor beltprofile through movement of the base member and the blade mountingassembly, it provides for more effective cleaning of a worn conveyorbelt. The present invention also enables an operator to adjust theattack angle of the scraper blade of each cleaning assembly relative tothe conveyor belt by adjusting the elongate support member relative tothe frame in addition to adjusting the scraper blade and resilientmember of each of the cleaning assemblies before use.

Any of the features described herein can be combined in any combinationwith any one or more of the other features described herein within thescope of the invention.

The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and shouldnot be taken as an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that theprior art forms part of the common general knowledge.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Preferred features, embodiments and variations of the invention may bediscerned from the following Detailed Description which providessufficient information for those skilled in the art to perform theinvention. The Detailed Description is not to be regarded as limitingthe scope of the preceding Summary of the Invention in any way. TheDetailed Description will make reference to a number of drawings asfollows:

FIG. 1 shows a front perspective view of a conveyor belt cleaningapparatus according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 shows a rear perspective view of a conveyor belt cleaningapparatus according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 3 shows a side perspective view of a conveyor belt cleaningapparatus according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 4 shows a front perspective view of an elongate support memberaccording to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 5A shows a front view of a base member for a cleaning assemblyaccording to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 5B shows a side view of a base member for a cleaning assemblyaccording to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 6 shows a rear view of a base member for a cleaning assemblyaccording to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 7 shows an exploded front perspective view of a cleaning assemblyaccording to an embodiment of the invention;

FIGS. 8A-C shows a front view of a conveyor belt cleaning apparatusaccording to an embodiment of the invention in use;

FIG. 9 shows a top perspective view of a conveyor belt cleaningapparatus according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 10 shows a top perspective view of an access opening of a conveyorbelt cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 11 shows a top perspective view of an elongate support memberaccording to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 12 shows a rear perspective view of a cleaning assembly accordingto an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 13 shows a rear perspective view of a cleaning assembly accordingto an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 14 shows a front view of a cleaning assembly according to anembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 15 shows a side view of a cleaning assembly according to anembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 16 shows an exploded side view of a cleaning assembly according toan embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 17 shows an exploded front perspective view of a base member of acleaning assembly according to an embodiment of the invention; and

FIG. 18 shows a side view of a lower region of a base member of acleaning assembly according to an embodiment of the invention.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

In FIGS. 1 and 2 , a partially exploded view of conveyor belt cleaningapparatus 200 according to an embodiment of the invention is shown.Conveyor belt cleaning apparatus 200 comprises an elongate supportmember 110 and a plurality of cleaning assemblies 120 and a cleaningassembly cover 138. Each of the plurality of cleaning assemblies 120comprises a base member 122 associated with the elongate support member110, and a blade mounting assembly 150 associated with the base member122 and adapted for mounting a scraper blade 152 thereto, wherein theblade mounting assembly 150 is configured for rotational movementrelative to the base member 122, and wherein each of the plurality ofcleaning assemblies 120 is adapted to maintain the respective scraperblades 152 in abutment with a conveyor belt (not shown).

Each of the cleaning assemblies 120 is provided with a pressure sensor184 to monitor hydraulic oil pressure and a linear rail and sensor 186to monitor wear in the scraper blade 152 and conveyor belt (not shown).Each sensor or measuring device 184,186 is connected to one or moreelectrical ports 188 located at one end of the elongate support member110 via one or more cables, wires or cords 190 and indirectly connectedto a control room monitor (not shown). In use, it is envisaged that anoperator may use the diagnostic data to determine if the cleaningassembly is operating within parameters for normal wear and tear, beyondpreset parameters indicating the conveyor belt or scraper blade needsreplacing, below preset parameters indicating the cleaning assembly oraccumulator may have a leak, or the like.

In FIG. 3 , a conveyor belt cleaning apparatus 200 is shown in situ in astructure 170 supporting a conveyor belt 168. Conveyor belt cleaningapparatus 200 is located in a frame 166 and accessible by access opening172. A spray bar 164 with nozzles for dispersing a liquid onto a lowersurface of conveyor belt 168 is attached to frame 166. Hold down rollers162 are attached to an upper portion of structure 170 such that therollers hold the conveyor belt flat and stable to optimize belt contactwith the scraper blades (not shown) of conveyor belt cleaning apparatus200. Support member fluid inlet 174 is located at an end of elongatesupport member 110 and is configured to provide hydraulic fluid to eachcleaning assembly (not shown).

In FIG. 4 , an elongate support member 110 for a conveyor belt cleaningapparatus according to an embodiment of the invention is shown. Elongatesupport member 110 comprises one or more transverse bores 116 extendingtransversely to the longitudinal axis of the elongate support member110, wherein the transverse bores 116 are adapted to receive and retainat least a portion of the base member of the cleaning assembly (notshown) therein. Elongate support member 110 may comprise a boreconfigured to supply a pressurized fluid to a cleaning assembly (notshown) received within the one or more transverse bores 116 located inthe elongate support member. Elongate support member 110 is supplied byan accumulator connected to a pressure inlet (not shown) located at anend of the elongate support member 110.

In FIGS. 5A, 5B, 6 and 7 , components of a cleaning assembly 120 forcleaning a conveyor belt according to an embodiment of the invention isshown. Cleaning assembly 120 comprises a base member 122 adapted to bemounted relative to the conveyor belt (not shown) and a blade mountingassembly 150 associated with the base member 122 and adapted formounting a scraper blade 152 thereto, wherein the blade mountingassembly 150 is configured for rotational movement relative to the basemember 122 and wherein the cleaning assembly 120 is configured tomaintain the scraper blade 152 in abutment with the conveyor belt (notshown).

Lower region 126 of the base member 122 comprises a cylindrical bodyportion 132 configured to receive at least a portion of the upper region124 of the base member therein, a flange 128 located at an end of thelower region of the base member to which the upper region of the basemember may be attached, a first bearing surface 127 and a second bearingsurface 129, and a biasing member 134 in the form of a return springmember bearing against the first bearing surface 127 and the secondbearing surface 129. A pin member 142 extending outwardly from the upperregion engages with a longitudinally extending groove 144 located in thecylindrical body portion 132 enabling the upper region 124 of the basemember to move relative to the lower region 126 of the base member alongthe longitudinal axis of the cleaning assembly 122 without substantiallateral or rotational movement. In use, it is envisaged that the upperregion 124 of the base member is precluded from separating fully fromthe lower region 126 of the base member or rotating relative theretowhen the cleaning assembly is in abutment with the conveyor belt.

The upper region 126 of the base member may comprise a housing portion146 configured to at least partially retain the actuation device 130therein, a mounting portion 140 attached to an upper surface of thehousing portion 146 and configured to mount the blade mounting assembly150 thereon and enable rotational movement of the blade mountingassembly 150, and an actuation device 130 configured to provide linearmotion of the blade mounting assembly 150. An adjustment member 158 maybe used to adjust the rotational movement of the blade mounting assembly150.

In use, it is envisaged that actuation device 130 is pressurized by thepressurized fluid located in elongate support member 110. Actuation ofthe actuation device 130 causes it to extend, resulting in linearmovement of upper region 124 of base member 122 relative to lower region126 of base member 122 and consequential movement of blade mountingassembly 150 along the same axis causing scraper blade 152 to contact aportion of the conveyor belt (not shown). As the pressure on actuationdevice 130 is relieved, return spring member 134, which biases the upperregion of the base member into a retracted condition, pulls upper region124 of base member 122 towards lower region 126 of base member 122 andconsequentially disengages blade mounting assembly 150 from the conveyorbelt (not shown).

Cleaning assembly 120 is provided with a pressure sensor 184 to monitorhydraulic oil pressure and a linear rail and sensor 186 to monitor wearin the scraper blade 152 and conveyor belt (not shown). Each sensor ormeasuring device 184,186 is connected to one or more electrical ports188 located at one end of the elongate support member 110 via one ormore cables, wires or cords 190 and indirectly connected to a controlroom monitor (not shown).

Blade mounting assembly 150 is connected to mounting portion 140 locatedon upper region 124 of base member 122 via connection portion 160located on a lower region of blade mount member 154. Blade mountingassembly 150 is self-compensating and rotates relative to mountingportion 140 in response to a configuration of the conveyor belt (notshown) to help maintain correct alignment and tension of scraper blade152 relative to the conveyor belt (not shown). Blade mounting assembly150 may move in a rocking motion up to about an 8° angle, and preferablyabout a 4° angle, relative to the mounting portion 140 by rotating aboutadjustment member 158. Adjustment member 158 may be used to adjust therotational movement of the blade mounting assembly 150. Blade mountingassembly 150 comprises a scraper blade 152 resiliently mounted to anupper region of blade mount member 154 via a resilient member 156.Scraper blade 152 is mounted to the side of the blade mount member 154opposing the side to which connection portion 160 is attached. In use,it is envisaged that resilient member 156 may provide yielding supportto scraper blade 152, such that scraper blade 152 may flex and conformto minor irregularities and movement in the conveyor belt.

In FIGS. 8A-C, a conveyor belt cleaning apparatus 200 according to anembodiment of the invention is shown in use. Individual cleaningassemblies 120 may freely rock back and forth and move up and down suchthat the scraper blades conform with a worn belt profile of conveyorbelt 90. As each individual cleaning assembly 120 rocks back and forthto conform with the profile of conveyor belt 90, it also angles itselfdiagonally across conveyor belt 90 due to the blade mount member beingoriented at about a 25° angle in relation to the piston block. It isenvisaged that this may increase cleaning performance and is gentle onthe belt resulting in less belt wear.

In FIGS. 9 and 10 , a conveyor belt cleaning apparatus 100 according toan embodiment of the invention is shown. Conveyor belt cleaningapparatus 100 comprises an elongate support member 10 and a plurality ofcleaning assemblies 20, wherein each of the plurality of cleaningassemblies 20 is adapted to maintain the respective scraper blades 52 inabutment with a conveyor belt (not shown). It is envisaged that in use,each of the scraper blades 52 are individually maintained in the correctalignment and tension with the conveyor belt (not shown) throughmovement of the respective cleaning assemblies 20. Further, it isenvisaged that, in use, the attack angle formed by scraper blades 52relative to the conveyor belt (not shown) is adjusted through rotationalmovement of the elongate support member 10.

Conveyor belt cleaning apparatus 100 comprises an access opening 12 ateach end of the apparatus in the form of a dual inspection hatchcomprising a sealed door with safety mesh door. Conveyor belt cleaningapparatus 100 may be accessed through access opening 12 in order toinspect the conveyor belt cleaning operation, remove and/or replace theconveyor belt cleaning apparatus, or operate or access pumps, sensors,gauges, valves, and the like. Hand operable pump 14 is provided at anend of elongate support member 10 to allow an operator to pressurize theaccumulator (not shown) and/or the conveyor belt cleaning apparatus 100.

In FIG. 11 , an elongate support member 10 according to an embodiment ofthe invention is shown. Elongate support member 10 comprises a supportmember fluid inlet 18 configured to receive a pressurized fluid, such asa pneumatic or hydraulic fluid and a plurality of support member fluidoutlets 19 configured to supply a pressurized fluid to a cleaningassembly (not shown) mounted to the elongate support member 10. Elongatesupport member 10 is provided with a plurality of receiving portions 16configured to receive a locking member (not shown) associated with acleaning assembly (not shown) to removably mount a cleaning assembly tothe elongate support member 10. In use, it is envisaged that when thelocking member of the cleaning assembly is engaged with the receivingportion on the elongate support member, the cleaning assembly isprecluded from independent movement relative to the elongate supportmember.

In FIGS. 12 to 16 , a cleaning assembly 20 for cleaning a conveyor beltaccording to an embodiment of the invention is shown. Cleaning assembly20 comprises a base member 22 adapted to be mounted relative to aconveyor belt (not shown) and a blade mounting assembly 50 associatedwith base member 22 and adapted for mounting a scraper blade 52 thereto,wherein the blade mounting assembly 50 is configured for rotationalmovement relative to the base member 22. Cleaning assembly 20 isconfigured to maintain the scraper blade 52 in abutment with theconveyor belt. Cleaning assembly 20 may comprise a base member cover 38.

Base member 22 comprises an upper region 24 and a lower region 26,wherein lower region 26 is configured to mount the cleaning assembly 20to the elongate support member 10 and wherein the upper region 24 may beassociated with a blade mounting assembly 50. Lower region 26 and upperregion 24 of base member 22 are separate, cooperating portions, whereinstop members 44 provided on a surface of lower region 26 engage with atleast a portion of upper region 24 and prevent upper region 24 fromseparating fully from lower region 26.

Upper region 24 comprises a housing portion 46 which is configured to atleast partially retain an actuation device 30 therein. Actuation device30 abuts an upper portion of the housing portion 46 and actuation ofactuation device 30 results in linear movement of the housing portion 30relative to lower region 26 of base member 22 and consequential linearmovement of blade mounting assembly 50 relative to the base member. Inthis way, it is envisaged that actuation of the actuation device 30maintains scraper blade 52 in abutment with a conveyor belt (not shown)at the correct tension to effectively clean the conveyor belt.

Blade mounting assembly 50 is connected to mounting portion 40 locatedon upper region 26 of base member 22 via connection portion 60 locatedon a lower region of mounting portion 54. Blade mounting assembly 50 isself-compensating and rotates relative to mounting portion 40 inresponse to a configuration of the conveyor belt (not shown) to helpmaintain correct alignment and tension of scraper blade 52 relative tothe conveyor belt (not shown). Blade mounting assembly 50 may move in arocking motion up to 5° relative to the mounting portion. Adjustmentmember 58 may be used to adjust the rotational movement of the blademounting assembly 50. Blade mounting assembly 50 comprises a scraperblade 52 resiliently mounted to an upper region of blade mount member 54via a resilient member 56. Scraper blade 52 is mounted to the side ofthe blade mount member 54 opposing the side to which connection portion60 is attached. In use, it is envisaged that resilient member 56 mayprovide yielding support to scraper blade 52, such that scraper blade 52may flex and conform to minor irregularities and movement in theconveyor belt.

In FIGS. 17 and 18 , a base member 22 of a cleaning assembly 20according to an embodiment of the invention is shown. Base member 22comprises an upper region 24 comprising a housing portion 46, a mountingportion 40 attached to an upper surface of housing portion 46, and anactuation device 30 located at least partially in housing portion 46,and a lower region 26 comprising an opening 28. Actuation device fluidinlet 32 of actuation device 30 is in fluid communication with a supportmember fluid outlet 19 of elongate support member 10). Actuation device30 may be provided with one or more sealing members 42 and one or morebleed screws 62. Opening 28 is provided with one or more sealing members34 located in annular grooves in the bore of opening 28 to provide aseal against leaking pressurized fluid and/or ingress of water anddebris into a gap located between an outer surface of the elongatesupport member 10 and the bore of opening 28.

Base member 22 comprises two cooperating portions formed by splittingbase member 22 in the region of opening 28, from the first end ofopening 28 to the opposed second end of opening 28. The upper portionthe split base member thereof is fixed to an upper surface of theelongate support member 10 by engaging one or more locking members 48with complementary receiving portions 16 located on a surface of theelongate support member 10. Actuation device fluid inlet 32 and supportmember fluid outlet 19 mate to form a fluid communication. The lowerportion of the split base member is then fitted to the underside of theelongate support member 10 and fastened to the upper portion of thesplit base member by one or more mechanical fasteners. In this way,opening 28 of base member 22 is configured to receive at least a portionof the elongate support member 10 therein.

In the present specification and claims (if any), the word ‘comprising’and its derivatives including ‘comprises’ and ‘comprise’ include each ofthe stated integers but does not exclude the inclusion of one or morefurther integers.

Reference throughout this specification to ‘one embodiment’ or ‘anembodiment’ means that a particular feature, structure, orcharacteristic described in connection with the embodiment is includedin at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, theappearance of the phrases ‘in one embodiment’ or ‘in an embodiment’ invarious places throughout this specification are not necessarily allreferring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features,structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner inone or more combinations.

In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described inlanguage more or less specific to structural or methodical features. Itis to be understood that the invention is not limited to specificfeatures shown or described since the means herein described comprisespreferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is,therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within theproper scope of the appended claims (if any) appropriately interpretedby those skilled in the art.

What is claimed is:
 1. A cleaning assembly for cleaning a conveyor beltcomprising: a base member adapted to be mounted relative to the conveyorbelt; and a blade mounting assembly associated with the base member andadapted for mounting a scraper blade thereto, wherein the blade mountingassembly is configured for rotational movement relative to the basemember, wherein the cleaning assembly is configured to maintain thescraper blade in abutment with the conveyor belt.